Super-university LASE launches, merging Greenwich and Kent

The University of Greenwich and the University of Kent have merged to form the London and South East University Group (LASE), billed as the United Kingdom's first "super‑university". The new institution will enrol more than 50,000 students across four campuses in London, Medway and Kent, making it the third‑largest university in the country. LASE will officially launch on 7 September and will retain the two original names as separate academic divisions, with staff employed by the group and students graduating from their chosen university.

Prof Jane Harrington, vice‑chancellor of Greenwich and chief executive of LASE, said the merger provides a strong financial foundation and a model for other institutions facing sector‑wide fiscal pressures. The Office for Students has warned that many UK providers risk insolvency, and the merger is presented as a blueprint to safeguard staff, students and local economies. Earlier this year, King's College London and Cranfield University announced a similar merger planned for 2027.